I-9 Verification: Do You Really Need a Notary? (Here’s the Truth!)
I-9 Verification: Do You Really Need a Notary? (Here’s the Truth!)
When it comes to hiring employees—especially remote workers—one of the most confusing steps is completing Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification. Many people assume they need a notary public to verify Section 2 of the I-9, but here’s the truth: not all notaries can (or should) do it—and in some cases, you don’t need a notary at all.
If you’re an employer or an employee trying to complete Form I-9, this guide will clear up any confusion and show you the fastest, easiest way to get it done legally.
What Is Form I-9 & Who Needs It?
Form I-9 is a federal document required by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to verify an employee’s identity and eligibility to work in the United States. Every employer must complete an I-9 for each new hire, regardless of whether they are in-office or remote.
Section 1: Completed by the employee on or before their first day of work.
Section 2: Completed by the employer (or an authorized representative) within three business days of the employee’s start date.
Do You Really Need a Notary for I-9 Verification?
No, a notary is NOT required by law to complete an I-9 form. However, employers often seek out notaries because they need a trusted third party to act as their Authorized Representative when they can’t meet the employee in person.
Here’s the catch: Not all notaries are trained or willing to complete Form I-9. Some states have restrictions on what notaries can do when it comes to employment verification.
Who Can Legally Complete Section 2 of an I-9?
USCIS allows anyone the employer designates to serve as an Authorized Representative to complete Section 2 of Form I-9. This can include:
✔ A company HR representative or manager ✔ A remote hiring coordinator ✔ A mobile notary or I-9 verification agent ✔ A friend, coworker, or trusted third party (if allowed by company policy)
Why a Mobile Notary Is the Best Choice for I-9 Verification
If you’re an employer hiring remote workers or a new hire needing to complete I-9 verification quickly, a mobile notary offers the fastest and most professional solution. Here’s why:
✔ Convenient & Flexible – A mobile notary comes to you, whether you’re at home, at work, or in a public location. ✔ Legally Compliant – I-9 trained notaries understand how to properly verify documents without notarizing them (since notarization is NOT required for I-9s). ✔ Quick Turnaround – Get your I-9 completed on time, avoiding delays that could affect your start date or payroll. ✔ Trusted Expertise – Notaries are already trained to verify identity documents, making them a natural fit for I-9 verification.
How to Get Your I-9 Verified Fast & Hassle-Free
Need to complete your I-9? Skip the confusion and let me handle it for you. Here’s how it works:
1️⃣ Schedule an Appointment – Contact me to book a time and location that’s convenient for you. 2️⃣ Bring Your ID & Work Authorization – Make sure to bring the proper documents listed on the USCIS List of Acceptable Documents. 3️⃣ I Verify & Complete Section 2 – I will act as your employer’s authorized representative, check your documents, and sign off on Section 2. 4️⃣ You Submit the Form to Your Employer – That’s it! You’ll have a properly completed I-9 ready for submission.
Need Fast I-9 Verification? I’ve Got You Covered!
As an experienced mobile notary and I-9 verification agent in Indianapolis, I help remote employees and employers complete I-9 forms quickly, correctly, and without hassle.
✨ Don’t wait—get your I-9 verified today! Schedule an appointment today.
